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Adam McCracken
About Me
Over the past few years, I’ve had the opportunity to build a strong foundation in design through a variety of professional experiences. My background spans advertising, print production, editorial design, and freelance work, giving me a flexible and hands-on approach to creative problem-solving. Whether collaborating with a team or working independently, I’m committed to producing thoughtful, effective design that communicates clearly and leaves a lasting impression.
Education
2021-2025
West Virginia University
Bachelors of Fine Arts
Emphasis in Graphic Design
Minor in Advertising
At West Virginia University, I found new ways to stretch and sharpen my skills — from building brands and designing for print, to dipping my toes into web design. I spent much of my time outside the classroom diving into internships, gaining hands-on experience across agencies, studios, and in-house teams. I also worked as a layout designer for the student newspaper, balancing creative storytelling with real-world deadlines. My time at WVU helped shape me into a designer who’s just as comfortable sketching out ideas as I am bringing them to life.
Work Experience
The Daily Athenaeum
January 2023 - May 2025
Layout Designer/Design Lead
During my time at The DA, I worked on layouts, cover art, illustrations, and graphics for the print edition, collaborating closely with editors, writers, and photographers to bring each issue to life. In my final year at WVU, I was promoted to lead designer, where I managed the design staff, coordinated deadlines, and directed the creative vision for both print and digital projects. This role strengthened my leadership, teamwork, and creative problem-solving skills while allowing me to mentor junior designers and contribute to the paper’s evolving visual identity.
Chambers College of Business and Economics
August 2023 - May 2024
Graphic Design Intern
As a design intern for Chambers College, I created print and digital promotional materials to highlight the Business and Economics programs, all while working within WVU’s strict brand guidelines. My work included developing social media visuals, writing promotional content, designing digital graphics for information stations, and creating wayfinding signage used throughout the college. This role gave me valuable experience in brand consistency, multi-platform design, and effective visual communication across campus and digital spaces.
Rich and Shirley's Quick Print
May 2023 - August 2023
Graphic Design Intern
As a design intern at RSQP, I produced a wide range of print materials for the company’s diverse client base. In addition to design work, I supported pre-press and post-print production processes and assisted with customer relations and service. This experience strengthened my skills in print production, client communication, and working in a fast-paced studio environment.
Wheelhouse Creative
May 2021 - August 2021
Graphic Design Intern
During my summer at Wheelhouse Creative, I designed both in-house promotional materials and client-facing content across a variety of platforms. My work included creating social media visuals, printed ephemera, and other marketing assets, allowing me to strengthen my skills in multi-platform design, brand adaptation, and collaborative creative work. This experience also gave me valuable insight into working within an agency environment and meeting the diverse needs of clients.
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